Jampa Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan, located in the Bumthang Valley. Founded in the 7th century AD by King Songtsen Gampo, a Tibetan ruler, Jampa Lhakhang holds great historical and spiritual significance in Bhutanese culture. The temple is part of a larger set of 108 temples known as Thadhul-Yangdhul (temples built to subdue a demoness residing in the Himalayas). These temples were constructed across the Himalayas, with Jampa Lhakhang being one of only two built in Bhutan, the other being Kichu Lhakhang in Paro, which is also believed to have been built on the same day.
The Sacred History of Jampa Lhakhang
Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the revered Buddhist saint, visited Jampa Lhakhang on several occasions and deemed the site exceptionally sacred. Over the centuries, the temple underwent several renovations. In the 8th century AD, it was renovated by Chakhar Gyab, the king of the Iron Castle of Bumthang, to further solidify its importance as a spiritual hub.
In the 19th century, the first king of Bhutan, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck, constructed the Dus Kyi Khorlo (Kalachakra-Wheel of Time) inside the temple to commemorate his victory over his rivals, Phuntsho Dorji of Punakha and Alu Dorji of Thimphu, after the famous Battle of Changlimithang in 1885. Later, Ashi Wangmo, the younger sister of the second king of Bhutan, built the Chorten Lhakhang, further enhancing the temple’s spiritual significance.
Relics of Great Importance
The main relic housed in Jampa Lhakhang is the statue of Jowo Jampa (Maitreya), the future Buddha, after whom the temple is named. The temple also contains more than one hundred statues of the Kalachakra gods, constructed by King Ugyen Wangchuck in 1887. These relics make Jampa Lhakhang a vital part of Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural history.
Jampa Lhakhang Drup – A Festival Like No Other
One of the highlights of Jampa Lhakhang is the annual Jampa Lhakhang Drup, a vibrant five-day festival that attracts visitors from across the country and beyond. The festival, held every year in November, is a spectacular celebration of Bhutanese traditions, with performances, rituals, and spiritual offerings. The festival’s most notable event is the fire ritual held in the evening, where naked dances are performed, and crowds gather to witness the dramatic display of fire and devotion.
For 2025, the Jampa Lhakhang Drup is scheduled to take place from November 5th – 8th. This event is a must-see for those visiting Bhutan during this time, offering a unique opportunity to experience the deep-rooted traditions and spiritual practices that are integral to Bhutanese culture.
Why Visit Jampa Lhakhang?
Jampa Lhakhang offers a fascinating glimpse into Bhutan's history, spirituality, and vibrant cultural traditions. Whether you are exploring the Bumthang Valley or visiting Bhutan for the Jampa Lhakhang Drup Festival, a visit to this sacred site is an unforgettable experience. With its ancient history, spiritual significance, and stunning architecture, Jampa Lhakhang stands as a testament to Bhutan’s enduring cultural heritage.
